THERE can be no doubt that the coffers of local authorities across the country are well and truly empty - and Hammersmith & Fulham Council is no different.
No one would envy the job it has in trying to reduce debt, save money and keep everyone in the borough happy. It is an impossible task.
But the dozens of voluntary groups who have seen their funding axed this week will struggle to find empathy with them.
They have been left fearing for their futures after some have spent the best part of 20 years serving the community.
The outrage they and their service users feel must be very raw.
Thirty-five groups have, though, been allocated a share of £2.6million in council grants and many more may receive better news when the second application round opens later this year.
But the reality is these funding cuts will result in dedicated and tireless volunteers being forced out of the industry and services relied upon by hundreds of people.
And that can surely not end well for residents.
